Marine Science Educator II

~ Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium began life in a tiny one-room building on Florida's west coast in 1955. ~

We were founded on three basic principles: passion, philanthropy and partnership. We had the passion of a young woman — Dr. Eugenie Clark — for her science. We had the philanthropy of Anne and William Vanderbilt, who built the one-room lab where Mote started and, later, the philanthropy of William R. Mote who helped us grow and is today the Lab's namesake. And, of course, we have always had our partnership with the community, which holds a strong connection to Mote and has supported us throughout our history.

Today, Mote can no longer be contained by one small room. More than 200 staff members — including more than 30 Ph.D. scientists — call the Lab home. From our Sarasota base of operations, we conduct research on six of the world's seven continents. Our education programs engage students in science and learning locally, nationally and internationally. We are continuously helping to create a more ocean literate society. 

Position Overview

Mote Marine Laboratory’s Education Division is currently seeking highly motivated and enthusiastic candidates to fill two Marine Science Educator II positions in our School and Public Programs. Mote's School Programs focus on visiting school group tours and programs, homeschool days, school outreaches, local school events and teacher professional development programs. Mote's Public Programs focus on special tours, guided nature & kayak tours, birthday parties, scout programs, overnight programs, camps, early childhood programs and community outreach events. Each position will have different focus areas with overlapping responsibilities. Educators will collaborate within the Division and work together to support Mote's mission.

Description:

• Assist with coordination and teach both on-site and outreach programs at Mote Marine Laboratory or within the community.
• The Marine Science Educator II works closely with staff, volunteers, and interns in the Education Department and throughout the Lab and Aquarium to ensure that our mission and the needs of the audiences are being met.

Working Hours:

• Full time MSE IIs will typically operate normal hours up to 40 hours per week.
• Part time MSE IIs will operate based on their schedule availability.
• Schedules will vary and may include evening, weekend, and holiday hours.

Responsibilities

Expectations:

• Implement high energy, developmentally appropriate and non-discriminatory experiences, aligned with Mote’s mission (and standards as applicable).
• Provide an enhanced participant experience through positive interactions and engaging activities.
• Create a safe, inclusive, and rewarding program for every participant
• Implement an effective educational experience that is based on Mote’s research and local marine environments, enhances ocean literacy and incorporates consistent conservation messages.
• Possess knowledge of Mote’s policies, safety procedures and animal safety protocols.
• Demonstrate a working knowledge of Mote’s research, local marine habitats, and best practices in informal science education.
• Consistently demonstrate a positive and welcoming demeanor in interactions with guests, participants, staff, interns and volunteers.

General Duties:

• Assist with program logistic arrangements, scheduling, materials procurement, curriculum development and updates, and any other duties to ensure successful programs.
• Implement engaging hands-on educational activities.
• Prepare and teach on-site classroom/lab/field programs, outreach programs, programs based at Mote field stations around Florida, evening events, and other education programs.
• Provide high quality group management to groups of participants of varying ages.
• Provide direction to Marine Science Educatory I staff, interns and volunteers.
• Prepare, organize and maintain educational resources.
• Provide outstanding customer service to our guests.
• Other duties as assigned by a Senior Coordinator or the Assistant Vice President of Education.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in education, science, or related field or equivalent experience.
• At least 2 years teaching experience in either a formal or informal education facility preferred.
• Reliable transportation and the ability to arrive at (off-site) locations at designated times.
• U.S. citizenship or foreign citizen’s U.S. work permit appropriate for the work.
• Certifications required: CPR/First Aid, Lifeguarding, Insect Sting Emergency Treatment Certification.
• Certifications preferred: SCUBA open water/beginner level.
• Excellent verbal/written communication skills.
• Stamina for working occasional long hours at outdoor locations in hot/cold weather, high humidity, intense sunlight, and wet weather while responsible for youth and adult participants.
• Not excessively prone to motion/sea sickness.
• Ability to carry/move heavy objects up to 40 lbs.
• The hiring of a successful candidate for this position is conditional on a background check.

To Apply

Please click "Apply" below to upload the following as one file by October 15: 

• A cover letter
• Resume
• The names and contact information for three references